Commenting on Cabinet Secretary for Justice Humza Yousaf’s response today to the independent review of mental health support for young people in custody, Commissioner Bruce Adamson said:

“The Scottish Government’s commitments to stop routine strip searching and to introduce in-cell telephone phone contact are welcome. Those actions promote and protect children’s rights to dignity, privacy and family life and to improve their mental wellbeing.

Yet, much more needs to be done to ensure children’s safety and wellbeing when they are placed in detention. Scotland’s aspiration to be the best place to grow up extends to all children, including those in detention.

I recommend the Scottish Government should ensure that appropriate accommodation is available to meet the needs of children in detention in line with international human rights standards.”